Understanding California’s evolving alcohol sales regulations, especially regarding takeout or delivery, has become more confusing due to shifts during and after the Covid pandemic. We’ll break down what’s currently allowed and what’s not for ABC-licensed restaurants and bars across the state.
First and foremost, it’s vital to recognize that each license type comes with specific privileges and limitations, detailed on the California ABC’s website. Importantly, no on-sale licensee is obligated to make sales for off-premises consumption; it’s a discretionary choice.
What’s Changed: Expanded Off-Sale and Drinks To-Go Privileges
As of January 1, 2022, some restaurants (“bona fide public eating places”) holding ABC license types 41, 47, or 75, and certain alcohol manufacturers (with license types 01, 02, 23, or 74) that house bona fide eating places can now offer alcohol for pickup. Here’s what’s permitted until 2027:- Selling manufacturer-sealed spirits for off-premises consumption: Limited to pick-up only, not delivery.
- Offering cocktails and wine to-go: Provided in secure containers, labeled as alcoholic, and sold alongside a bona fide meal.